Let’s face it - most schools have chess clubs and soccer teams, but how many can say they offer an accordion juggling club? This one-of-a-kind activity blends music, coordination, and a dash of circus flair. Imagine students mastering polkas while tossing juggling balls in rhythm - it’s equal parts challenging, entertaining, and gloriously unconventional. Below, we’ll break down everything teachers need to launch this unique program.
Equipment You’ll Need
First things first: the gear. You’ll need accordions, juggling props, and a few practical extras.
- Accordions: Start with lightweight, student-friendly models. Used piano accordions (12- to 24-bass) are affordable and easier for small hands. Retailers like Liberty Bellows or local music shops often have refurbished options. Avoid heavy, full-sized models - trust me, your students’ shoulders will thank you.
- Juggling Props: Begin with soft silicone balls or beanbags to minimize slips and bruises. As skills progress, introduce clubs or rings. Budget-friendly sets from brands like Higgins Brothers or Renegade Juggling work well.
- Extras: A Bluetooth speaker helps students play along to backing tracks. Don’t forget a storage rack for accordions (leaning them on the floor risks damage) and a first-aid kit for the occasional dropped juggling club.
Pro tip: Partner with local music stores or parent donors to offset costs. Some companies even loan instruments to schools for extracurriculars.
Suitable Locations
Space matters. You’ll need room for both accordion straps and flying juggling props.
A gymnasium or cafeteria is ideal - think high ceilings and open floors. Music rooms often feel too cramped, but if that’s your only option, rearrange chairs to create a clear zone. Outdoor spaces like courtyards work too, but wind can turn juggling into a comedy act (not always a bad thing).
Flooring is key. Carpets or rubber mats protect accordions during inevitable drops. Ensure electrical outlets are nearby if using amplifiers. Lastly, lockable storage keeps gear secure between sessions.
Age Range
This club isn’t for kindergarteners. The accordion’s weight and juggling’s coordination demands suit kids ages 10 and up (grades 5–12). Younger teens might struggle at first, but with practice, they’ll thrive.
That said, don’t underestimate high schoolers. Many are drawn to quirky hobbies that stand out on college applications. Just be ready for the occasional eye-roll when you announce the club - they’ll come around once they see how fun it is.
Who Will Enjoy This?
Got students who love band, theater, or puzzles? They’ll fit right in. Accordion juggling rewards patience, creativity, and a willingness to look silly while learning. It’s perfect for:
- Multi-taskers: Kids who doodle during math class or hum while writing essays.
- Performers: Drama kids eager to add a unique skill to their repertoire.
- Non-athletes: Students who want camaraderie without competitive sports.
Surprisingly, shy kids often shine here too. The focus on gradual skill-building boosts confidence - plus, laughing over dropped juggling balls is a great icebreaker.
Things to Consider
The Good: This club fosters creativity, motor skills, and teamwork. It’s a conversation starter for school events and surprisingly adaptable - think holiday performances or talent shows.
The Challenges:
- Safety First: Accordions are bulky. Teach students to strap them securely and juggle in designated areas to avoid collisions.
- Patience Required: Progress is slow. Celebrate small wins, like nailing a three-ball cascade while playing a C major scale.
- Noise Levels: Accordions are loud. Secure a space where the oompah beats won’t disrupt nearby classes.
Budget-wise, start small. One accordion and a few juggling sets can serve 5–6 students in rotations.
Further Pathways
Once students get hooked, opportunities bloom:
- Performances: Local fairs, nursing homes, or school board meetings love novelty acts.
- Workshops: Partner with circus schools or accordionists for guest lessons. Groups like the American Accordionists’ Association often support youth programs.
- Online Communities: Encourage kids to share videos on platforms like YouTube (with parental consent, of course). Hashtags like #AccordionJuggling could spark connections.
- Competitions: While accordion juggling isn’t an Olympic sport (yet), talent contests or juggling festivals welcome eclectic skills.
Final Thoughts
Yes, accordion juggling is quirky. But that’s the point. In a world of standardized tests and routine, this club offers a space where mistakes are funny, progress is tangible, and creativity gets loud. Start with borrowed gear, embrace the chaos, and watch students surprise themselves. Who knows? You might even learn to juggle a few balls yourself.
Resources:
- Liberty Bellows (accordions): libertybellows.com
- Higgins Brothers Juggling: higginsbrothers.com
- American Accordionists’ Association: americanaccordionists.org
Now go make some noise - and maybe catch a club or two on the way.